Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).

photo 1 of 632

UFC Welterweight Champion Georges St-Pierre answers questions from the media at the UFC 124 open workouts at the Marriott Chateau Champlain in on December 8, 2010 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Georges St-Pierre

Schoolyard Motivation History’s most successful welterweight grew up as a shy boy who turned to martial arts to defend himself against relentless bullying at school. Finding that he had a knack for combat sports, the future champion began training in karate, boxing, wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.Work Ethic GSP worked as a bouncer and garbage man to help pay his way through school, where he studied administration.

Quick Rise St-Pierre turned pro in January of 2002, and ran off five rapid-fire wins which earned him the nickname “Rush." Two years later, he entered the UFC. After two wins, he received a title shot against legendary welterweight champion Matt Hughes in October 2004. He did well before getting tapped to an armbar with one second to go in the opening round.

Winning (and Losing) the Title After rededicating himself to his training, GSP dominated the November 2006 title rematch against Hughes. At UFC 69, he lost the belt to 12-1 underdog Matt Serra. The loss changed GSP, and the ensuing transformation made him one of the most cerebral fighters in the UFC. St-Pierre blew through Josh Koscheck and Hughes (again) before routing Serra in a title rematch. That UFC 83 win was the Octagon's first outing in Montreal and St-Pierre's hometown fans went wild.Sharp-Dressed Man He arrives at all press conferences sharply dressed in an expensive suit and tie; also routinely dons a suit and tie when arriving at the arena on fight night; widely respected for not only being an elite fighter but also a class act.

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).